Kobe Port Tower: A Symbol of Kobe's Maritime History

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Iconic red tower in Kobe offering panoramic city and harbor views, inspired by traditional Japanese design.

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Kobe Port Tower

The Kobe Port Tower, a striking red hyperboloid structure, has been a symbol of Kobe since 1963. Inspired by a traditional Japanese drum, the tower offers panoramic views of the city, Osaka Bay, and the Rokko Mountains. Recently renovated, it features a new rooftop deck and refreshed interior spaces.

A brief summary to Kobe Port Tower

5-5 Hatobacho, Kobe, Hatobacho, Chuo Ward, Hyogo, 650-0042, JP
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Monday 9 am-11 pm
Tuesday 9 am-11 pm
Wednesday 9 am-11 pm
Thursday 9 am-11 pm
Friday 9 am-11 pm
Saturday 9 am-11 pm
Sunday 9 am-11 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kobe Port Tower.

Visit at night to witness the tower's stunning illumination and enjoy Kobe's dazzling night view.
Purchase tickets in advance online to avoid potential lines, especially during peak season.
Take advantage of the combo tickets for discounts if you plan to visit the nearby Kobe Maritime Museum.
Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure clear views from the observation decks.
Enjoy a meal or drink at the rotating café for a unique dining experience with ever-changing scenery.

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Getting There

Walking

From Kobe Harborland, the Kobe Port Tower is within easy walking distance. Enjoy a pleasant stroll along the waterfront, taking in the sights of Meriken Park. The tower is a short walk from the BE KOBE monument.
Public Transport

The closest subway station to Kobe Port Tower is Minato Motomachi Station on the Kobe Subway Kaigan Line. From the station, it's approximately a 5-10 minute walk to the tower. Alternatively, from JR Kobe Station, you can take a taxi or walk for about 20 minutes. The City Loop bus also stops near the tower. A single ride on the City Loop bus costs around ¥260.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Kobe and can take you directly to the Kobe Port Tower. A short taxi ride from Sannomiya Station or Kobe Station will typically cost between ¥800-¥1200.

Discover more about Kobe Port Tower

Kobe Port Tower, affectionately nicknamed the 'Beauty of the Iron Tower,' stands as a proud symbol of Kobe's maritime heritage and its vibrant future. Completed in 1963, the 108-meter-high tower was designed by Nikken Sekkei Company and its unique shape draws inspiration from a traditional Japanese drum called a tsuzumi. The distinctive red lattice exterior, illuminated at night with thousands of LED lights, has become an iconic image of the city.More than just a pretty face, the Kobe Port Tower offers visitors a chance to experience breathtaking panoramic views. The observation decks provide stunning 360-degree vistas of Kobe's cityscape, the bustling harbor, Osaka Bay, and the majestic Rokko Mountains. Recently renovated in April 2024, the tower now boasts a new open-air rooftop deck, offering an even more immersive experience.Inside, the tower features several floors of attractions, including a rotating café and bar, a museum, and a souvenir shop. Visitors can also test their courage on the 'Skywalk,' featuring see-through floor panels that offer a thrilling glimpse down to the ground below. The Kobe Port Tower isn't just a tourist attraction; it's a symbol of hope and resilience for the people of Kobe, especially after the Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995.